Readiness of Urban Local Authorities in Adopting Artificial Intelligence in Policy Processes: Evidence from Mutare City Council, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study sought to explore the readiness of Zimbabwe urban local authorities in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) in policy processes, focusing on Mutare City Council (MCC). Against the backdrop of the 4th industrial revolution, various technologies have disrupted the status quo and have redefined and redesigned systems, as we know them. In the context of Council, there is no policy formulation, implementation and evaluation without citizen engagement. Citizen engagement is central in all policy processes of all the 92 urban and rural district councils/local authorities in Zimbabwe. The objectives guiding the study were to analyse existing strategies, identify gaps, evaluate readiness and recommend potential AI-based solutions and frameworks suitable to enhance citizen engagement in policy processes by the City of Mutare, Zimbabwe. The study was purely qualitative in nature with City council officials in the form of management and councillors, residents’ association representatives and civil society members selected purposively. Interviews were utilised to gather data from participants. Obtained results were analysed thematically. Noteworthy is that a positive relationship exists between wide consultation and the success of a policy proposition. The study revealed that MCC has made progress in the digitalisation of citizen engagement processes but is not ready for robust implementation of AI that has potential to unlock endless opportunities. Currently traditional media (newspaper, notice boards and magazines), social media (WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter), web presence and Short Message Service (SMS) hotline are some of the methods being utilised. The study revealed digital divide, poor internet connectivity, budget constraints, knowledge gap, and resistance to change as inhibitors to full implementation of AI. The study recommends partnerships, government funding and training of staff and citizens as well as development of policy frameworks to guide integration of AI as measures to enhance flawless adoption of AI. The potential of AI cannot be overemphasised in this digital age but context is of paramount importance to come up with tailor made solutions that speak to all policy actors.